Ranking the 20 Best NBA Point Guards Ever

Over the decades, the NBA has seen some incredible talent at the point guard position. From incredible passers to sharpshooters, here’s our ranking of the 20 best point guards of all time.

20. Rod Strickland

Known for his crafty ball-handling and elite passing, Rod Strickland was definitely one of the most underrated guards of the 1990s. Though he never won a championship, his impact as a playmaker is undeniable.

19. Kevin Johnson

Kevin Johnson was an explosive scorer and passer for the Phoenix Suns in the late ‘80s and ‘90s. His speed and ability to attack the rim set him apart as one of the best offensive guards of his era.

18. Lenny Wilkens

Not only a Hall of Famer as a player but also as a coach, Lenny Wilkens was a steady floor general during his playing days. He was an incredible passer, but he was also a very smart player who knew how to outwit his opponents.

17. Tony Parker

Tony Parker is a four-time NBA champion and was the Finals MVP in 2007, cementing his legacy as one of the game’s best. His ability to penetrate defenses with his quickness and floaters made him a cornerstone of the San Antonio Spurs dynasty.

16. Damian Lillard

Simply put, Damian Lillard is clutch. Though he lacks a championship, his consistent scoring ability and leadership earn him a spot on this list.

15. Tim Hardaway

The originator of the “UTEP Two-Step,” Tim Hardaway dazzled with his crossover. Not to mention, he was a prolific scorer and playmaker during his time with both the Warriors and Heat.

14. Kyrie Irving

Few players in NBA history possess the ball-handling wizardry and finishing ability of Kyrie Irving, if any. His 2016 Finals performance, including the game-winning shot in Game 7, solidified his legacy forever.

13. Chauncey Billups

Known as “Mr. Big Shot,” Chauncey Billups was the leader of the 2004 Detroit Pistons championship team. His ability to control the game — along with his clutch shooting — earned him a Finals MVP and a reputation as one of the best leaders in league history.

12. Walt Frazier

The epitome of cool and clutch, Walt Frazier led the New York Knicks to two championships in the 1970s. And, while his defense and playmaking were elite, he also had a unique personality that captivated fans.

11. Jason Kidd

One of the greatest passers and rebounders at the position, Jason Kidd was a triple-double machine. He finally won a championship with the Mavericks in 2011, cementing his legacy, but he was one of the best even before he got a ring.

10. Chris Paul

Chris Paul — aka “CP3”— is one of the most complete point guards in NBA history. He’s not only an excellent scorer, but he’s also a great passer and defender.

9. Bob Cousy

Bob Cousy was a pioneer of the point guard position, dominating in the 1950s and 60s with the Boston Celtics. In fact, his flashy passing and leadership helped the Celtics win six championships.

8. Steve Nash

A two-time MVP, Steve Nash completely revolutionized the point guard position during his time in the NBA. Though he never won a championship, his offensive brilliance with the Suns inspired a whole new generation of players.

7. Russell Westbrook

A triple-double machine and former MVP, Russell Westbrook’s relentless energy and athleticism have redefined the point guard position.

6. Isiah Thomas

As the heart and soul of the “Bad Boy” Pistons, Isaiah Thomas led Detroit to back-to-back championships in 1989 and 1990. He was Michael Jordan’s adversary throughout much of his career but held his own.

5. Oscar Robertson

The original triple-double king, Oscar Robertson was a dominant force in the 1960s. His all-around game paved the way for future generations of point guards to expand their roles beyond just passing.

4. John Stockton

The all-time leader in assists and steals, John Stockton was the ultimate floor general for the Utah Jazz. Though he never won a championship, his talent was undeniable.

Read More: The Best NBA Players of All Time

3. Magic Johnson

Magic Magic was the ultimate playmaker, leading the “Showtime” Lakers to five championships in the 1980s. And, at 6’9”, his size and versatility were unprecedented for a point guard.

2. Jerry West

Known as “The Logo,” Jerry West was a dominant offensive force and led his teams to nine NBA Finals appearances. Beyond his scoring, his basketball IQ and relentless drive made him the ultimate floor general.

1. Steph Curry

Steph Curry is not only the greatest shooter in NBA history, he is also the greatest point guard in NBA history. Curry has completely revolutionized basketball with his three-point shooting and off-ball movement. And, as a four-time NBA champion and two-time MVP, his legacy will last forever.